Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) also called prostate gland enlargement is a common

condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary

symptoms, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can also cause bladder,

urinary tract or kidney problems. There are several effective treatments for prostate gland

enlargement, including medications, minimally invasive therapies and surgery. To choose the

best option, you and your doctor will consider your symptoms, the size of your prostate, other

health conditions you might have and your preferences.

The severity of symptoms in people who have prostate gland enlargement varies, but symptoms

tend to gradually worsen over time. Common signs and symptoms of BPH includes frequent or

urgent need to urinate, increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia), difficulty starting

urination, weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts, dribbling at the end of urination

and inability to completely empty the bladder. The size of your prostate doesn't necessarily

determine the severity of your symptoms. Some men with only slightly enlarged prostates can

have significant symptoms, while other men with very enlarged prostates can have only minor

urinary symptoms. In some men, symptoms eventually stabilize and might even improve over

time. Other possible causes of urinary symptoms Conditions that can lead to symptoms similar to

those caused by enlarged prostate includes urinary tract infection, inflammation of the prostate

(prostatitis), narrowing of the urethra (urethral stricture), scarring in the bladder neck as a result

of previous surgery, bladder or kidney stones, problems with nerves that control the bladder and

cancer of the prostate or bladder.

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The prostate gland is located beneath your bladder. The tube that transports urine from the

bladder (urethra) passes through the center of the prostate. When the prostate enlarges, it begins

to block urine flow. In many men, this continued growth enlarges the prostate enough to cause

urinary symptoms or to significantly block urine flow. It isn't entirely clear what causes the

prostate to enlarge. However, it might be due to changes in the balance of sex hormones as men

grow older. Complications of an enlarged prostate can include sudden inability to urinate

(urinary retention), Urinary tract infections (UTIs), Bladder stones, Bladder damage and Kidney

damage.

In conclusion, most men with an enlarged prostate don't develop these benign prostatic

hyperplasia complications. However, acute urinary retention and kidney damage can be serious

health threats. Having an enlarged prostate is not believed to increase your risk of developing

prostate cancer. If you have mild symptoms, you may want to make some lifestyle changes to

help manage them. Try to limit the fluids you drink, especially before bedtime. Also try to avoid

fluids with caffeine (such as coffee or soda) and spicy foods.

Bibliography:

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